Wasp infestations on the increase

Forty-three percent of Brits have found a nest in their home

The AA's Home Emergency Response Service is urging people to ensure their home is protected from wasps as the arrival of summer has meant a significant increase in wasp infestations.

According to research undertaken by the AA*, a worrying 43% of Britons have found a wasps' nest in their home. 37% of these found a nest in their loft, while 23% found one in a wall cavity.

Early detection is key

Tom Stringer, head of the AA’s Home Emergency Response Service said: “Wasps nests are at best a nuisance, and at worst, a hazard.

“We expect calls for nest removal to increase significantly as the weather warms up. Traditionally we’re busiest during the summer when wasps are most active, so finding a nest now before it’s well-established means you can get rid of it before it gets bigger and more problematic.”

However, the AA's research revealed that almost three quarters of respondents have taken no action to protect their home from the risk of wasps nests.

Fill the gaps

Tom Stringer continued: “Wasps are known to build nests in loft spaces. Like most insects, they’ll squeeze in through tiny gaps – so getting up there and checking it’s well sealed is worthwhile.

“Tackling a wasp nest is dangerous and should only be done by professionals. Many people often think that their home insurance covers them for this but it often doesn’t, and so considering a standalone policy could be beneficial.”

Although it’s almost impossible to avoid wasps altogether, here are some simple measures you can take to lessen the chances of them causing a problem in your home.

Tips to keep wasps at bay

Wasps like sweet foods so try to keep sugary foods or drinks indoors. If you’re having a barbecue, keep food and drinks covered

Wasps tend to congregate around food sources. Buy a bin with a tight-fitting lid to stop them hanging around

Wasps are territorial and won’t build nests where there’s another one close by. Trick them by hanging up a crumpled paper bag where they’re likely to build

Seal gaps around eaves, soffit boards and cracks in walls to lessen the chance of wasps getting in